Crowns Materials and Placement Beaverton, OR![]() Uses For and Types of Dental CrownsIf the dentist tells you that a crown is needed, it could be for several different reasons. One of the most common reasons is to protect a tooth that has just undergone a root canal. Other reasons include restoring the shape and function of a broken tooth or improving the aesthetic look of a misshapen or discolored tooth that cannot be fixed using simpler cosmetic methods. The dentist may also recommend a crown to help secure a dental bridge or to protect a weak tooth from breaking in the first place. Depending on your dental needs, you may have several options to choose from when it comes to what type of crown will be used. Some crowns are made of metal alloys or even gold, some are designed from porcelain and fused to metal, and others are made from ceramic. Each type of crown has its pros and cons. The dentist will speak with you about what options are available before beginning the procedure so you know what steps will be taken. Getting a Dental CrownOftentimes, getting a crown means taking two separate trips to the dentist. During your first trip, the dentist will examine your mouth and, if necessary, take x-rays to get a complete picture of what is going on inside and outside of the affected tooth. This process may also occur during the process of a root canal, which typically requires a crown after its completion. The dentist will then make sure the tooth is ready to be fitted for a crown. This can involve filling in areas that have been removed due to decay or dental drilling, and shaving down areas to make it easier for the crown to seal around the tooth. Your tooth will then be measured, and those measurements will be sent off to an outside lab so your custom crown can be designed. Depending on the condition of your tooth, the dentist may also fit you for a temporary crown to hold you over until the permanent one is delivered. When it does get delivered, you will come back in for a second appointment, where the dentist will permanently attach it to your tooth using dental cement. It is important in the days and weeks following this procedure to take good care of the crown, avoid extensive use of that side of the mouth, and be aware of any bite or jaw discomfort that may require the crown to be adjusted. Getting a crown can not only make your teeth feel better, but it can also greatly improve the appearance of your smile. At Summercrest Dental, we know how to install a crown that makes the most sense for your specific dental needs. Call us today at (503) 649-7701 to schedule an appointment. |